China Donates Wheelchairs and Laptops Worth M1.3 Million to Lesotho

The Government of the People’s Republic of China has donated 25 laptops and 68 electrical wheelchairs to the Kingdom of Lesotho in a goodwill gesture valued at M1.3 million. The donation reaffirms the growing bond between the two nations and highlights China’s continued commitment to supporting Lesotho’s development and social inclusion efforts.

Receiving the donation, the Right Honourable Prime Minister Samuel Ntsokoane Matekane expressed his appreciation for the support from China, describing it as a reflection of a strong, long-standing partnership. He shared that he has personally distributed some of the wheelchairs in various districts, and emphasized how meaningful they are to recipients. According to the Prime Minister, wheelchairs dramatically enhance mobility for persons with disabilities and reduce their reliance on others, helping them live with greater dignity and independence.

The donation was originally presented by His Excellency Mu Hong, Vice Chairman of the Chinese People’s Political Consultative Conference (CPPCC), during his official visit to Lesotho in December 2023. Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Relations, Honourable Lejone Mpotjoane, acknowledged the occasion as historic and praised the gesture as a clear demonstration of mutual respect and enduring friendship between Lesotho and China. He added that the support embodies the shared values of solidarity, inclusivity, and dignity.

Chinese Ambassador to Lesotho, His Excellency Yang Xiaokun, echoed similar sentiments, stating that the donation reflects the continuous efforts by the Chinese government to strengthen bilateral ties with Lesotho. He noted that such projects are part of China’s broader principle of cooperative development. He was particularly moved by the enduring spirit of unity in Basotho society, inspired by the founding values of King Moshoeshoe I, and remarked that the phrase “I am because we are” had touched him deeply.

One of the beneficiaries of the wheelchairs, Mr. Mosase, conveyed heartfelt thanks to the Prime Minister and the government for making his dream come true. Born with a disability, he shared that owning an electric wheelchair had always seemed beyond his reach. He expressed hope that many more Basotho with disabilities would also be given similar opportunities to improve their quality of life.

The donation is one of many development initiatives supported by China in Lesotho, and it underscores the importance of fostering strong international partnerships rooted in empathy, inclusiveness, and shared progress.